Health risks in Phuket and medical services
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When travelling to Phuket, health issues needn’t be a concern. Thailand is a relatively safe country, though the levels of hygiene in some parts are quite low and there are some local hazards to be wary of. With so much water about, water borne disease and viruses can be a problem. Although Thai people in general are typically less fussed or responsible about health precautions, the tourist infra-structure is well developed to meet Western standards and expectations for health, particularly in Phuket.
For more information on medical services and hospitals, please see our directory page here.
In Thailand, especially Phuket, health care is of a high standard and hospitals here are very well managed and the staff very competent. Few visitors become critically ill while on holiday here, but the unfamiliar environment does create a few uncomfortable reactions. The following guide on Phuket health will help you take the necessary precautions.
Guide to disease, infection and viruses
Avian influenza: is no longer considered a health risk and no new cases have been reported in Thailand in several years.
Cholera : Phuket has occasionally had outbreaks of cholera, but mostly in poorer communities such as construction camps, where hygiene is not all it should be. These are usually localised and are quickly brought under control. The big danger from cholera is dehydration, so if you suffer from severe diarrhoea, get medical help.
Drinking water: the tap water in both Patong and Phuket City is deemed drinkable, though it's probably prudent to drink bottled water to be on the safe side. However this is not the case in the rest of Thailand. Ice and free water available at restaurants are usually safe to drink, as water filtration systems are commonly used.
Dehydration : drinking plenty of water is essential in Phuket's tropical heat and humidity to avoid dehydration, especially if you're out sunbathing or doing some physical activity. The common symptoms are fever, fatigue, dry mouth and breathing difficulty - see a doctor or take some rehydration salts/drinks for relief. A brand called ‘O-lyte’ is widely available in convenience stores.
Dengue fever: is spread through mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season of May-October, though it's extremely rare for foreign visitors to contract this disease. Symptoms of dengue include severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea and skin rashes; if it develops into dengue hemorrhagic fever, it can be fatal. There are no prophylactics available so the best prevention is to wear repellant and protective clothing. The carrier mosquito favours still water, such as pot plant saucers, so keep an eye out for these near your room.
Diarrhoea : many visitors will suffer a day or two of diarrhoea, especially if they've sampled some of the local spicy fare. Avoid eating in shops that appear unhygienic (those that have passed government inspections will display a ‘Clean Food, Good Taste’ sign), drink only filtered or bottled water, and try not to overdo it on the chilli if your stomach's not accustomed to hot food. Anti-diarrhoeal medication is widely available. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by vomiting, go and see a doctor for treatment.
Diving dangers : diving in the Andaman is a must-do activity, but it's not without its risks. The most common ailment suffered by divers is "the bends", or decompression sickness, a condition that arises when air bubbles form in the blood due to a rapid decrease in environmental pressure from coming to the surface too fast. Symptoms and signs - which usually show up within three hours of a dive - include pain in the joints/limbs, rashes, dizziness, paralysis, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue or falling into unconsciousness. Divers with the bends need to find immediate medical help or call Hyperbaric Services Thailand for assistance. The HST Patong office telephone: 076 342 518. Andaman coast 24-hour emergency line: 09 871 2335 or 01 797 5984. There are also hyperbaric chambers at the Vachira government hospital and the private Phuket International and Bangkok Hospitals, all three of which are in Phuket Town.
Hepatitis: there are two forms of hepatitis, one spread by contaminated food and water and the other by contaminated blood and sexual contacts. Hepatitis A and E are in the first group and are very common. Hep A causes fever, chills, headaches and fatigue, and is treated through rest and a good diet. Hepatitis B, C and D are more serious, and can result in inflammation of the liver and other complications. There are vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, which should be obtained before travelling to Phuket.
HIV : the grim statistics of HIV/AIDS in Thailand forecast 20 years ago never came to be due to a highly successful campaign to encourage safe sex practices, though it's estimated that about five percent of the general population carries the disease. Rates are higher among those in the skin trade. Condoms are a must with any casual sexual encounter, even if your new friend carries a "disease-free" certificate.
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